Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is reviewing ABG laboratory results of a client who is in respiratory distress. The results are pH 7.47, PaCO2 32 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mm Hg. The healthcare professional should recognize that the client is experiencing which of the following acid-base imbalances?

• A. Respiratory acidosis
• B. Respiratory alkalosis
• C. Metabolic acidosis
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The ABG results show a high pH (alkalosis) along with low PaCO2 and normal HCO3 levels, indicating respiratory alkalosis. In this condition, there is excessive loss of carbon dioxide (as seen by the low PaCO2) leading to a decrease in carbonic acid concentration and subsequent increase in pH. Metabolic acidosis or alkalosis would involve primary changes in bicarbonate levels, which are not predominant in this case.

2. Why is a precise amount of oxygen necessary for a patient with COPD to prevent which complication?

• A. Cardiac arrest related to increased partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (PaCO2)
• B. Circulatory overload due to hypervolemia
• C. Respiratory excitement
• D. Inhibition of the respiratory hypoxic stimulus

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In patients with COPD, the respiratory drive is often stimulated by low oxygen levels. Administering too much oxygen can inhibit this hypoxic drive, leading to respiratory depression and potential respiratory failure. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully regulate the oxygen therapy to prevent the inhibition of the respiratory hypoxic stimulus in COPD patients.

3. A client is being instructed on the use of an incentive spirometer. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. ''I will place the adapter on my finger to read my blood oxygen saturation level.''
• B. ''I will lie on my back with my knees bent.''
• C. ''I will rest my hand over my abdomen to create resistance.''
• D. ''I will take in a deep breath and hold it before exhaling.''

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer demonstrates an understanding of the proper technique for using an incentive spirometer. Incentive spirometry helps to improve lung function by encouraging deep breathing and sustaining the inhalation to fully expand the lungs. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not reflect the correct instructions for using an incentive spirometer.

4. When providing mouth care to an unconscious client, what is the best position for the client?

• A. Fowler’s position
• B. Side-lying
• C. Supine
• D. Trendelenburg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best position for an unconscious client when providing mouth care is the side-lying position. This position helps prevent aspiration by allowing fluids to drain out of the mouth easily, reducing the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia. Placing the client in a side-lying position also promotes comfort and safety during the procedure. The other options are not ideal for mouth care in an unconscious client: Fowler’s position may increase the risk of aspiration, the supine position can lead to aspiration as well, and Trendelenburg position is not recommended due to potential adverse effects on blood circulation and increased intracranial pressure.

5. A patient requires augmentation of labor. Which of the following conditions should the nurse recognize as a contraindication to the use of oxytocin?

• A. Diabetes mellitus
• B. Shoulder presentation
• C. Postterm with oligohydramnios
• D. Chorioamnionitis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Postterm pregnancy with oligohydramnios is a contraindication for the use of oxytocin due to the increased risk of uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress. Oxytocin can further stress the fetus in this scenario, potentially leading to adverse outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to recognize this contraindication to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby during labor.

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